In a bold challenge to fast fashion, Nigerian designer Abasiekeme Ukanireh is reshaping the fashion industry with her eco-conscious label built entirely around raffia—a biodegradable fiber from palm trees. From her first raffia-accented jacket to runway-ready outfits, each piece is handmade and dyed with natural ingredients like kola nuts, blending elegance with sustainability. Her designs, though priced over $232, are made to last, challenging the throwaway ethos of modern fashion. With the fast fashion industry responsible for nearly 10% of global emissions, Ukanireh’s work represents a movement toward mindful consumption. Through her innovative designs, she proves that fashion can be both beautiful and planet-friendly.
DW